Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for wireless communications, comprising: sending, from a first base station, a resource status message to a second base station; receiving, at the first base station from the second base station, a message indicating proposed resource partitioning for inter-cell interference coordination between the first and second base stations based on the resource status message, wherein: the proposed resource partitioning comprises an unknown indicator, a common indicator, a use indicator, and a no use indicator associated with one or more subframes, the unknown indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for adaptive resource partitioning, the common indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for use by the first base station and the second base station, and the proposed resource partitioning indicates one or more resources to be used by the first base station to reduce interference with the second base station; and scheduling resources at the first base station based on the received resource partitioning.
This invention relates to wireless communications, specifically inter-cell interference coordination (ICIC) between base stations. The problem addressed is managing interference in wireless networks where multiple base stations operate in proximity, potentially causing signal degradation due to overlapping resource usage. The solution involves a method for dynamic resource partitioning between base stations to minimize interference while optimizing resource utilization. The method includes a first base station sending a resource status message to a second base station, which then responds with a proposed resource partitioning plan. This plan includes indicators for subframes, categorized as unknown, common, use, or no use. The unknown indicator marks subframes available for adaptive partitioning, allowing flexible allocation. The common indicator designates subframes usable by both base stations. The use indicator specifies subframes allocated to the first base station, while the no use indicator marks subframes reserved for the second base station. The first base station schedules its resources based on this partitioning to reduce interference with the second base station. This approach enables efficient interference management by dynamically adjusting resource allocation between neighboring base stations.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scheduling comprises scheduling the resources at the first base station based on the received resource partitioning within an extended boundary area.
A method for managing wireless communication resources in a network with overlapping coverage areas involves partitioning resources between multiple base stations to reduce interference. The method includes determining a resource partitioning scheme for a first base station and a second base station, where the partitioning defines which resources each base station can use to avoid conflicts. The partitioning is based on factors such as signal strength, load balancing, or network policies. The method then schedules resources at the first base station according to the partitioning, particularly within an extended boundary area where the coverage areas of the two base stations overlap. This ensures that both base stations can operate efficiently without causing excessive interference to each other. The scheduling may involve allocating specific time slots, frequency bands, or other resource types to each base station within the overlapping region. The method may also include dynamically adjusting the partitioning and scheduling as conditions change, such as when user devices move or network traffic fluctuates. The goal is to optimize resource utilization while maintaining reliable communication quality in areas where multiple base stations provide coverage.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the extended boundary area comprises a cell coverage area of the first base station under a cell coverage area of the second base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing interference and coverage issues in cellular networks where overlapping cell boundaries exist. The method involves managing communication between a first base station and a second base station to optimize signal quality and coverage in an extended boundary area. The extended boundary area is defined as a region where the cell coverage of the first base station is partially or fully under the coverage of the second base station. The method includes adjusting transmission parameters, such as power levels or frequency allocations, to mitigate interference and ensure reliable communication in this overlapping region. By dynamically coordinating between the two base stations, the system improves signal strength and reduces dropped connections for user devices operating near the boundary. The approach is particularly useful in dense urban environments or areas with complex terrain where traditional coverage strategies may fail. The solution enhances network efficiency by preventing unnecessary signal conflicts and ensuring seamless connectivity for users transitioning between coverage zones.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scheduling comprises: scheduling the resources based on the received resource partitioning for first user equipments (UEs) in a first area covered by the second base station and the first base station; and scheduling the resources based on an independent resource partitioning determined by the first base station for second UEs in a second area covered only by the first base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for scheduling radio resources in a network where multiple base stations serve overlapping and non-overlapping coverage areas. The problem addressed is efficient resource allocation in heterogeneous networks where user equipment (UE) devices may be served by one or more base stations, requiring dynamic partitioning of available resources to optimize performance. The method involves scheduling radio resources for UEs based on different partitioning schemes depending on their location. For UEs in a first area covered by both a first and a second base station, resources are allocated according to a shared partitioning scheme received from the second base station. This ensures coordinated resource usage in overlapping coverage regions. For UEs in a second area covered only by the first base station, resources are allocated independently by the first base station, allowing for localized optimization without interference from the second base station. The partitioning schemes may include time, frequency, or spatial domain divisions to minimize interference and maximize throughput. This approach improves spectral efficiency and reduces signaling overhead by dynamically adapting resource allocation based on UE location and network topology.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the message indicating the proposed resource partitioning is based on a load of at least one of the first base station or the second base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing resource partitioning between base stations to optimize network performance. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation of shared communication resources, such as frequency bands or time slots, between multiple base stations to reduce interference and improve data throughput. The method involves a first base station and a second base station sharing a communication resource, such as a frequency band or time slot. The base stations exchange messages to propose and negotiate resource partitioning. The partitioning is determined based on the load conditions of the base stations, meaning the amount of data traffic each base station is handling. For example, if one base station is heavily loaded while the other is lightly loaded, the partitioning may allocate more resources to the heavily loaded base station to prevent congestion and improve service quality. The partitioning can be adjusted dynamically as load conditions change, ensuring continuous optimization. The method may also involve coordinating with other base stations in the network to ensure that partitioning decisions do not negatively impact neighboring cells. This approach helps balance network traffic, reduce interference, and enhance overall system efficiency.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the proposed resource partitioning comprises semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI) or adaptive resource partitioning information (ARPI).
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for resource partitioning in shared spectrum environments. The problem addressed is efficient allocation of communication resources between different users or services to optimize performance, reduce interference, and improve spectrum utilization. The invention provides a method for partitioning resources in a wireless network, where the partitioning can be either semi-static or adaptive. Semi-static resource partitioning involves dividing resources based on predefined criteria that change infrequently, such as time, frequency, or spatial domains. This approach ensures stability and predictability in resource allocation. Adaptive resource partitioning dynamically adjusts resource allocation based on real-time conditions, such as traffic load, interference levels, or user requirements. This allows for more flexible and efficient use of available resources. The method includes determining the type of partitioning needed, either semi-static or adaptive, and then applying the corresponding partitioning scheme. For semi-static partitioning, predefined rules or configurations are used to allocate resources. For adaptive partitioning, real-time data is analyzed to adjust resource allocation dynamically. The invention ensures that resource partitioning is optimized for the specific needs of the wireless network, improving overall system performance and reliability.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the ARPI comprises additional resource partitioning information not indicated by the SRPI.
A system and method for wireless communication involves resource partitioning to manage interference in shared spectrum environments. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating and utilizing spectrum resources in scenarios where multiple networks or devices operate in overlapping frequency bands. A primary resource partitioning indicator (SRPI) is used to define a baseline allocation of resources, such as time, frequency, or spatial domains, to different users or networks. To enhance flexibility and precision, an additional resource partitioning indicator (ARPI) is introduced, which provides supplementary partitioning details not covered by the SRPI. The ARPI may include finer granularity adjustments, additional constraints, or alternative partitioning schemes that refine or override the initial allocation specified by the SRPI. This dual-indicator approach allows for more dynamic and adaptive resource management, improving spectrum efficiency and reducing interference. The method ensures that the ARPI complements the SRPI by introducing new partitioning rules or parameters that were not previously indicated, enabling more sophisticated coordination among coexisting systems. The solution is particularly useful in dense wireless deployments where static partitioning may lead to inefficiencies or conflicts.
8. An apparatus for wireless communications, comprising: a transmitter configured to transmit, from the apparatus, a resource status message to a base station; a receiver configured to receive, at the apparatus from the base station, a message indicating proposed resource partitioning for inter-cell interference coordination between the apparatus and the base station based on the resource status message, wherein: the proposed resource partitioning comprises an unknown indicator, a common indicator, a use indicator, and a no use indicator associated with one or more subframes, the unknown indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for adaptive resource partitioning, the common indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for use by the apparatus and the base station, and the proposed resource partitioning indicates one or more resources to be used by the apparatus to reduce interference with the base station; and at least one processor configured to schedule resources at the apparatus based on the received resource partitioning.
The apparatus is designed for wireless communications to manage inter-cell interference coordination between a user device and a base station. The problem addressed is efficient resource allocation to minimize interference in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where multiple cells share the same frequency spectrum. The apparatus includes a transmitter that sends a resource status message to the base station, providing information about its current resource usage. A receiver then obtains a response from the base station, which includes a proposed resource partitioning scheme for interference coordination. This partitioning scheme categorizes subframes into four types: an unknown indicator for subframes available for adaptive partitioning, a common indicator for subframes usable by both the device and the base station, a use indicator for subframes allocated to the device, and a no use indicator for subframes restricted from use by the device. The partitioning helps the device determine which resources to utilize to reduce interference with the base station. The apparatus also includes a processor that schedules resources based on the received partitioning information, ensuring optimal use of available resources while minimizing interference. This system enables dynamic and flexible resource management in wireless networks.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the at least one processor is configured to schedule the resources at the apparatus based on the received resource partitioning within an extended boundary area.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource allocation in extended boundary areas where multiple network nodes or devices share spectrum resources. The problem addressed is efficient resource partitioning and scheduling to avoid interference and optimize performance in such areas. The apparatus includes at least one processor configured to receive resource partitioning information from a central controller or neighboring nodes. The partitioning defines how available spectrum resources (e.g., time slots, frequency bands, or spatial resources) are divided among devices or network nodes operating within the extended boundary area. The processor then schedules the apparatus's own resource usage according to this partitioning to ensure coordinated access to shared resources. The apparatus may also include a transceiver for communicating with other devices or controllers to exchange resource allocation data. The scheduling process accounts for the partitioning rules to prevent conflicts and ensure fair or prioritized access to resources. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios like heterogeneous networks, small cell deployments, or unlicensed spectrum sharing, where multiple entities must coexist without centralized control. The invention improves spectrum utilization and reduces interference by enforcing structured resource allocation in dynamic or overlapping coverage areas. The apparatus dynamically adjusts its resource usage based on received partitioning updates, allowing flexible adaptation to changing network conditions.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the extended boundary area comprises a cell coverage area of the apparatus under a cell coverage area of the base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing interference and coverage optimization in cellular networks. The apparatus includes a base station and a secondary device that extends the coverage area of the base station. The secondary device operates within the base station's coverage area but provides additional coverage to areas that would otherwise be underserved or experience weak signals. The extended boundary area created by the secondary device is defined as a cell coverage area that lies under the primary coverage area of the base station. This configuration ensures seamless connectivity for mobile devices moving between the base station and the secondary device, reducing signal dropouts and improving overall network reliability. The apparatus may include multiple secondary devices to further enhance coverage in specific regions, such as urban areas with high interference or rural areas with limited infrastructure. The system dynamically adjusts transmission parameters to maintain optimal signal quality and minimize interference between the base station and the secondary devices. This approach improves network efficiency and user experience by extending coverage without requiring additional base stations.
11. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the at least one processor is configured to: schedule the resources based on the received resource partitioning for first user equipments (UEs) in a first area covered by the base station and the apparatus; and schedule the resources based on an independent resource partitioning determined by the apparatus for second UEs in a second area covered only by the apparatus.
A wireless communication system includes a base station and an apparatus, such as a relay node, that manages radio resource allocation for user equipments (UEs) in different coverage areas. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating shared spectrum resources between a base station and an apparatus, particularly in scenarios where the apparatus serves UEs in an area not covered by the base station. The apparatus receives a resource partitioning scheme from the base station, which defines how resources are allocated for UEs in a first area covered by both the base station and the apparatus. For UEs in a second area covered only by the apparatus, the apparatus independently determines and applies its own resource partitioning. This dual-scheduling approach ensures that resources are optimized for both shared and exclusive coverage zones, improving spectral efficiency and reducing interference. The apparatus dynamically adjusts resource allocation based on traffic demands and interference conditions, enhancing overall network performance. The system is particularly useful in heterogeneous networks where relay nodes or small cells operate alongside macro base stations.
12. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the message indicating the proposed resource partitioning is based on a load of at least one of the apparatus or the base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource partitioning in cellular networks to manage interference and improve efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for dynamic allocation of communication resources between a base station and user devices to optimize performance under varying network conditions. The apparatus includes a base station and a user device configured to exchange messages for partitioning communication resources. The partitioning is based on the load conditions of either the apparatus (user device) or the base station, ensuring adaptive resource allocation. The apparatus may also determine a load metric, such as traffic volume or interference levels, to adjust resource partitioning dynamically. Additionally, the apparatus can transmit or receive a message indicating the proposed partitioning, allowing both the base station and user device to coordinate resource usage efficiently. The system may further include mechanisms to prioritize certain traffic types or devices based on load conditions, ensuring fair and efficient resource distribution. The invention aims to enhance network performance by dynamically adapting resource allocation to real-time load conditions, reducing interference and improving overall system efficiency.
13. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the proposed resource partitioning comprises semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI) or adaptive resource partitioning information (ARPI).
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for partitioning communication resources between different types of traffic, such as ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB). The problem addressed is the need for efficient resource allocation to ensure low-latency performance for URLLC while maintaining high throughput for eMBB. The apparatus includes a resource partitioning module that dynamically allocates communication resources based on traffic demands. The partitioning can be either semi-static or adaptive. Semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI) involves predefined resource allocations that are periodically updated to balance URLLC and eMBB needs. Adaptive resource partitioning information (ARPI) allows real-time adjustments based on current traffic conditions, enabling more flexible and responsive resource management. The system monitors traffic patterns and adjusts partitioning accordingly, ensuring URLLC traffic receives priority when needed while maximizing eMBB throughput during less critical periods. This dual-mode approach improves overall network efficiency and reliability. The apparatus may also include a scheduling module to coordinate resource assignments and a feedback mechanism to refine partitioning decisions based on performance metrics. The invention enhances wireless communication systems by providing a flexible and efficient solution for managing diverse traffic requirements.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the ARPI comprises additional resource partitioning information not indicated by the SRPI.
The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for managing resource partitioning in wireless networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible resource allocation in wireless networks to support multiple services with varying requirements, such as latency, reliability, and throughput. Existing systems may lack the ability to dynamically adjust resource partitioning based on real-time network conditions or service demands, leading to suboptimal performance. The apparatus includes a resource partitioning indicator (RPI) that provides information about how communication resources (e.g., time, frequency, or spatial resources) are divided among different services or users. The RPI includes a static resource partitioning indicator (SRPI) that defines a baseline partitioning scheme. However, the SRPI may not account for all possible partitioning scenarios or dynamic adjustments needed in the network. To address this, the apparatus includes an additional resource partitioning indicator (ARPI) that supplements the SRPI with extra partitioning details not covered by the SRPI. The ARPI allows for more granular control over resource allocation, enabling the network to adapt to changing conditions or specific service requirements. This dual-indicator approach improves flexibility and efficiency in resource management, ensuring better performance for diverse wireless services. The apparatus may be implemented in network nodes such as base stations or access points, which use the RPI to allocate resources to user devices or other network entities.
15. An apparatus for wireless communications, comprising: means for sending, from the apparatus, a resource status message to a base station; means for receiving, at the apparatus from the base station, a message indicating proposed resource partitioning for inter-cell interference coordination between the apparatus and the base station based on the resource status message, wherein: the proposed resource partitioning comprises an unknown indicator, a common indicator, a use indicator, and a no use indicator associated with one or more subframes, the unknown indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for adaptive resource partitioning, the common indicator indicates that the one or more subframes are available for use by the apparatus and the base station, and the proposed resource partitioning indicates one or more resources to be used by the apparatus to reduce interference with the base station; and means for scheduling resources at the apparatus based on the received resource partitioning.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing inter-cell interference coordination (ICIC) between a user device and a base station. The problem solved is efficient resource allocation to minimize interference while dynamically adapting to changing network conditions. The apparatus includes a transmitter to send a resource status message to a base station, reporting its current resource usage or availability. The base station responds with a proposed resource partitioning scheme for ICIC, which includes indicators for different subframe usage categories. The partitioning scheme uses four indicators: an unknown indicator for subframes available for adaptive partitioning, a common indicator for subframes shared by both the apparatus and the base station, a use indicator for subframes allocated to the apparatus, and a no use indicator for subframes reserved for the base station. The apparatus then schedules its resources based on this partitioning to reduce interference with the base station while optimizing its own performance. The dynamic nature of the partitioning allows for real-time adjustments to network conditions, improving overall efficiency and reducing conflicts between cells.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the means for scheduling comprises means for scheduling the resources at the apparatus based on the received resource partitioning within an extended boundary area.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource scheduling in heterogeneous networks where small cells operate within the coverage area of a macro cell. The problem addressed is efficient resource allocation to avoid interference and optimize performance in overlapping coverage zones, particularly in extended boundary areas where small cells and macro cells coexist. The apparatus includes a scheduler that dynamically allocates resources based on received resource partitioning information. The scheduling mechanism ensures that resources are assigned within an extended boundary area, which is a region where the coverage of a small cell overlaps with that of a macro cell. The apparatus receives partitioning data that defines how resources should be divided between the macro cell and small cells to minimize interference and maximize throughput. The scheduler then assigns resources to user devices or network nodes based on this partitioning, ensuring efficient utilization of available spectrum while maintaining service quality. The invention improves network performance by dynamically adapting resource allocation in overlapping coverage areas, reducing interference and enhancing data rates for users near cell boundaries. The scheduling mechanism is designed to work with existing network architectures, making it compatible with current and future wireless communication standards.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the extended boundary area comprises a cell coverage area of the apparatus under a cell coverage area of the base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing interference and coverage challenges in cellular networks. The apparatus includes a base station and a secondary device that extends the coverage area of the base station. The extended boundary area is defined as a region where the secondary device provides coverage under the primary coverage area of the base station. The apparatus ensures seamless connectivity by allowing the secondary device to handle communications within its extended boundary while the base station manages the broader coverage area. This setup improves signal reliability and reduces interference in edge regions of the network. The secondary device may include additional antennas or signal processing capabilities to enhance coverage in specific areas, such as urban canyons or rural outskirts. The system dynamically adjusts power levels and frequency allocations to optimize performance. This approach helps mitigate signal degradation and improves user experience in areas where direct base station coverage is weak. The invention is particularly useful in dense urban environments or regions with challenging terrain, where traditional base stations alone may struggle to provide consistent service.
18. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the means for scheduling comprises: means for scheduling the resources based on the received resource partitioning for first user equipments (UEs) in a first area covered by the base station and the apparatus; and means for scheduling the resources based on an independent resource partitioning determined by the apparatus for second UEs in a second area covered only by the apparatus.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource scheduling in heterogeneous networks where multiple nodes (e.g., base stations and relay nodes) serve different coverage areas. The problem addressed is efficient resource allocation in scenarios where some user equipments (UEs) are served by both a base station and an apparatus (e.g., a relay node), while others are served only by the apparatus. The invention improves resource utilization by dynamically partitioning resources between these two groups of UEs. The apparatus includes a scheduler that assigns resources differently for UEs in two distinct areas. For UEs in the first area, covered by both the base station and the apparatus, the scheduler uses resource partitioning information received from the base station. This ensures coordination between the base station and the apparatus, avoiding interference and optimizing shared resources. For UEs in the second area, covered only by the apparatus, the scheduler independently determines resource partitioning based on local conditions, such as traffic load or channel quality, without relying on the base station. This flexibility allows the apparatus to optimize resources for UEs it exclusively serves, improving overall network efficiency. The invention enhances spectral efficiency and reduces interference in heterogeneous networks by dynamically adapting resource allocation based on coverage and service requirements.
19. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the message indicating the proposed resource partitioning is based on a load of at least one of the apparatus or the base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource partitioning in cellular networks to manage interference and improve efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for dynamic allocation of communication resources between a base station and user devices to optimize performance under varying network conditions. The apparatus includes a processor configured to determine a proposed partitioning of communication resources between the apparatus and a base station. The partitioning is based on the load of either the apparatus or the base station, ensuring that resource allocation adapts to real-time network demands. The apparatus also includes a transmitter to send a message indicating the proposed partitioning to the base station, enabling coordinated resource management. The base station may then adjust its resource allocation accordingly to reduce interference and improve overall network efficiency. The apparatus may further include a receiver to obtain load information from the base station, allowing the partitioning decision to be based on both local and network-wide conditions. Additionally, the apparatus may determine the proposed partitioning based on a comparison of the load of the apparatus and the base station, ensuring balanced resource allocation. The partitioning may involve dividing resources such as time slots, frequency bands, or spatial channels to minimize conflicts and enhance data throughput. This invention improves wireless communication efficiency by dynamically adjusting resource allocation based on real-time load conditions, reducing interference and optimizing network performance.
20. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the proposed resource partitioning comprises semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI) or adaptive resource partitioning information (ARPI).
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to resource partitioning in shared spectrum environments where multiple networks or devices compete for access. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible allocation of communication resources to avoid interference and maximize throughput in dynamic wireless environments. The apparatus includes a resource partitioning module that dynamically allocates communication resources between different networks or devices. The partitioning can be semi-static or adaptive. Semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI) defines fixed or slowly changing resource allocations, providing stability for certain applications. Adaptive resource partitioning information (ARPI) allows real-time adjustments based on current network conditions, such as traffic load, interference levels, or priority requirements. The partitioning may involve time, frequency, or spatial resources, ensuring coexistence between different systems while optimizing performance. The apparatus may also include a monitoring module to assess network conditions and a control module to adjust partitioning parameters accordingly. This ensures that resource allocation remains efficient as conditions change. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple networks, such as cellular and Wi-Fi, share the same frequency band, or where different devices within a network require varying levels of resource priority. By dynamically or semi-statically partitioning resources, the system minimizes interference and improves overall communication efficiency.
Unknown
June 2, 2020
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